#United States #University of Maryland #College Park #John Bertot #College of Information

John Bertot Named Dean of the College of Information

The University of Maryland (UMD) has recently announced the appointment of John Bertot as the new dean of its College of Information (INFO), with his official start date set for July 1, 2026. This strategic decision aims to elevate the role of information science and technology in society, reinforcing UMD's commitment to fostering academic excellence and innovation.

Dr. Bertot brings nearly two decades of experience within the UMD community and currently holds the position of associate provost for faculty affairs. His extensive background includes being a professor in the College of Information, where he is well-regarded for his forward-thinking approach to faculty development. Under his guidance, the Office of Faculty Affairs (OFA) has seen substantial growth in its initiatives and outreach, creating significant advancements in faculty support and administrative processes.

In his new role as dean, Bertot will lead a vibrant ecosystem of over 3,000 faculty, staff, and students, furthering the college's mission to enhance how people interact with information. His vision will focus on promoting impactful scholarship, expanding interdisciplinary collaborations, and advancing innovative academic programs, thereby solidifying INFO's reputation as a nationally recognized leader in education and research in the field of information science.

Jennifer King Rice, UMD’s senior vice president and provost, expressed confidence in Bertot's leadership. She noted, “It has been both a privilege and an honor to work alongside Dr. Bertot. His deep respect for his INFO colleagues has shaped every aspect of his leadership in faculty affairs.” This endorsement highlights the trust and respect Bertot has garnered among his peers and leadership within the university.

Throughout his tenure at UMD, Bertot has established a robust reputation for fostering collaboration and mentorship. He has played an instrumental role in enhancing faculty experiences, managing the complexities of the Appointment, Promotion, and Tenure (APT) processes, and advocating for faculty interests. His leadership of OFA has led to the launch of various leadership development programs aimed at empowering faculty members at different stages of their careers.

Bertot has been a major proponent of Professional Track Faculty (PTK) initiatives, advocating for improved policies surrounding contracts, compensation, and promotion processes. His ongoing efforts include proposing revisions to the APT policy to ensure alignment with institutional values and enhance transparency and fairness in faculty evaluations.

Reflecting on his appointment, Bertot remarked, “UMD's College of Information is renowned for its innovative instructional programs and excellent faculty, dedicated staff, and engaged students. I am honored to lead a college that exemplifies creativity, a commitment to inclusive excellence, and a strong desire to serve the public good.” He is keen to enhance the college's impact on society through improved community engagement and academic integrity.

The College of Information is distinguished as the leading producer of information science bachelor's degrees among residential universities. Its Master of Library and Information Science program is currently ranked third nationally by U.S. News & World Report, attesting to its high standards and academic rigor.

Bertot’s journey in academia began after earning his B.A. and M.A. in communications from the State University of New York at Albany, followed by a Ph.D. from Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies. With a prolific background as a scholar, Bertot has authored seven books and nearly 100 journal articles, and his contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards. His research interests span various domains, including information policy, public service innovation, and the role of public libraries in fostering digitally inclusive communities.

As the University of Maryland continues to position itself at the forefront of research and public service, Dr. John Bertot’s appointment as dean of the College of Information marks a significant advancement for the institution. His leadership is expected to catalyze further innovations in how individuals engage with technology and information—a pivotal factor in our increasingly connected world. Through his commitment to inclusivity and excellence, Bertot is poised to guide the college into a promising future.